In the United States, nearly 20,000 cases of AML are diagnosed annually, most of them in adults.
Around 12,000 people die of AML each year.
Unlike otherforms of leukemia, which tend to strike the young, AML typically affects adults over 65.
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Among this age group, the five-year survival rate is relatively poor, hovering at around 5%.
While the disease mostly affectswhite blood cells, some forms of the disease attack other cell types.
AML develops in an immature blood cell known as a myeloblast.
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While AML primarily affects older adults, ALL mainly strikes children between the ages of two and five.
Causes and Risk Factors
There are a number ofrisk factorsassociated with AML.
However, having one or even several of these factors doesn’t mean that you will get leukemia.
To date, we still dont fully understand why some cells will suddenly turn cancerous while others dont.
We refer to this as a mutation.
If this happens, an abnormal cell can suddenly replicate out of control.
Acomplete blood count (CBC)will also be performed to identify any abnormalities in the blood composition.
Based on these findings, the doctor may order a number of tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Staging
Cancer staging is performed to determine the extent to which a cancer has spread.
The staging also helps predict how long a person is likely to survive following treatment.
This progression will provide the pathologist the information needed to know how advanced the cancer is.
Typically speaking, treatment will begin with chemotherapy.
Up to 70% of people with AML will achieve remission following “7+3” therapy.
To avoid this, doctors will prescribe ongoing therapy based on the persons post-treatment results and health status.
Less commonly, surgery or radiation therapy may be recommended.
But, there are other factors that can also predict the likely outcome.
Among them:
Overall, the average cure rate of AML is between 20% and 45%.
Sustained remission rates tend to be highest in younger people who are more able to tolerate treatment.
Dont go it alone.
Even after you have undergone treatment, fears about relapse may linger for months or even years.
With support, you will eventually overcome these concerns and learn to monitor your health with regular doctor visits.
American Cancer Society.What Is Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)?Updated August 21, 2018.
American Cancer Society.Key statistics for acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Servier Pharmaceuticals LLC.Tibsovo (ivosidenib tablets).
